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Illinois SBDC at WIU-QC Minority Empowerment Grant Awards

June 15, 2018

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MOLINE, IL -- The Western Illinois University-Quad Cites Illinois Small Business Development Center (SBDC) at recently hosted the Minority Empowerment Equipment Grant award ceremonies to recognize 14 Quad Cities-area minority owned small businesses.

The businesses recognized have more than 140 years of combined work and business experience, noted Jim Boyd, director of the WIU SBDCs.

According to Boyd, thanks to an anonymous donor, WIU-QC SBDC developed the Small Business Minority Empowerment Grant, which allows minority businesses to apply for a grant to assist with the purchase, repair or replacement of a piece of equipment. Over $12,500 in equipment grants were recently awarded.

"Thank you to all that contributed to this grant. I'm honored and humbled to be receiving this," noted a grant recipient. "I want to personally thank the Western Illinois University SBDC for taking the time to train me and give me all the resources I need to be able to give my business a good firm foundation."

The 2018 grant recipients include Taco Al Vapor, B & B Detail, QC Tote Bag & Tag, Aquas Fresca Camila, Limitless Solutions IT, Rosita's Candy Shop, Antojitos Mydiaz, La Imperial, Fast Lane Towing, Jelly's Snacks, A World of Flavours, Peralta Production Video, Carmen's Jewelry and Neveria Chocofresas.

"Western Illinois University prides ourselves on being responsive to the region. Through the President's Executive Institute, we strongly focus on community and economic development," said Joe Rives, vice president for Quad Cities and planning. "The entrepreneurial efforts that were supported in this ceremony showcase the strength and resolve of the Quad Cities community and we honored to help support future growth for these business owners."

Posted By: University Communications (U-Communications@wiu.edu)
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